Which car is better: UAZ Patriot or Chevrolet Niva

The range of inexpensive crossovers on the Russian market seems quite impressive. But there really aren’t that many really high-quality and reliable cars at a low price.

UAZ Patriot and Chevrolet Niva

Yes, there is a huge list of Chinese SUVs available. But the vast majority of them are just conventional crossovers, more reminiscent of SUVs or even station wagons with increased ground clearance. The complete lack of all-wheel drive in cars from the Middle Kingdom does not allow them to be used in frankly difficult conditions.

If you require maximum cross-country ability, reliable all-wheel drive and confident off-road performance, then you should take a closer look at the Chevrolet Niva and UAZ Patriot cars. They are extremely inexpensive and ideal for fishing, hunting, and trips into the wild. At the same time, many are naturally interested in the question of which car is better, and who should be given preference. To make a choice, you need to compare these crossovers, compare their technical capabilities and other parameters that play an important role when buying a car.

General information

UAZ Patriot belongs to the category of mid-size SUVs with a frame structure and all-wheel drive. The car has a brutal appearance, excellent practicality and increased cross-country ability.

After its official debut, the model did not change generations, but experienced several restylings. UAZ first showed the updated version in October 2016. As part of the modernization, the appearance was slightly changed, but the interior and technical components were significantly redesigned. After 2 years, another update took place, which barely affected the exterior and interior, but significantly changed the filling of the engine compartment. As a result, the Patriot received a new engine and an upgraded gearbox. We also rebuilt the suspension and improved the performance of the front axle.

UAZ Patriot uses a frame chassis with dependent suspension at the front and rear. Moreover, there is a spring structure in front, and several semi-elliptical longitudinal springs are provided at the rear. The steering mechanism is rack and pinion with hydraulic booster. The front brakes are disc, and the rear are classic drums.

Despite numerous promises and statements, the second generation of Chevrolet Niva never came into being. The reasons can be called different, but the fact remains a fact. That’s why the first generation of Chevrolet Niva still remains relevant.

The first time we learned about Niva under the Chevrolet brand was in 2002. Although in 1998 AvtoVAZ presented the VAZ 2123 project, which was supposed to become a replacement for the old Niva 2121. The project turned out to be interesting, but there was simply not enough money for mass production. Therefore, in 2001, AvtoVAZ sold a license for the project to General Motors, and a year later production of the Chevrolet Niva began. Compared to the VAZ 2123 project, the American concern made over 1000 changes.

The last actual restyling took place in 2014. Chevrolet updated the exterior, and also redesigned the interior and technical components. One of the main innovations was the installation of new seats.

Chevrolet Niva is an all-wheel drive crossover, which is built on the basis of a monocoque body with a front spring independent suspension and a pair of wishbones, as well as a rear spring suspension consisting of 5 rods. Disc brakes were installed in front, and drums were located at the rear. The steering is rack and pinion, supplemented by a hydraulic booster.

Transmission

Both cars are equipped with 6-speed gearboxes with a transfer case. All-wheel drive is controlled using a special lever located in the car's interior, next to the manual transmission handle. Restyled Patriot models can be equipped with a washer for switching the drive. Chevrolet is equipped with a Russian-assembled model. UAZ is equipped with Daimos products manufactured in Korea. Therefore, there are slight differences in the implementation of the transmission. Chevrolet Niva operates with permanent all-wheel drive. In UAZ, rear-wheel drive is used on a permanent basis, the front one is connected using a transfer case and clutch.

Appearance

The Chevrolet Niva can hardly be called an incredibly beautiful SUV. The model’s appearance is more like a crossover, although the capabilities and cross-country ability fully correspond to the concept of a full-fledged SUV.

Soft lines, the absence of sharp and obtuse corners, neat optics, lean front and rear bumpers, solid glazing, roof rails and high wheel arches allow us to talk about fairly correct and rational decisions by the designers.

The appearance of the UAZ Patriot is brutal, monumental and sometimes rough. Here you can immediately see the features of a frame SUV, moreover, of the 80-90s type. It would be rash to say that the Patriot has some common features with the Gelendvagen, but the squareness of the body still suggests such thoughts.

It would be a good idea to compare the two cars by size.

Chevrolet Niva offers the following options:

length 3919 mm. (without rear spare wheel);
wheelbase 2450 mm;
width 1800 mm;
height 1652 mm;
ground clearance from 200 to 240 mm.

The ground clearance decreases when fully loaded, but still does not fall below 200 mm.

As for the Patriot, it answers with the following figures (dimensions depend on the configuration):

length from 4750 to 4785mm;
height from 1910 to 2005 mm;
width 1900 mm. (without mirrors);
wheelbase 2760 mm;
ground clearance 210 mm.

It is difficult to identify a favorite in the fight between the Niva and Patriot models based only on appearance. If you are attracted to a more urban and crossover body style, then take the Niva. If you want to get a brutal and aggressive design, the Patriot will be the priority option.

Off-road

Despite the presence of some advantages of the Duster and Niva compared to the Patriot when overcoming mud and sand (due to having less weight with normal tires), most often it is the Patriot that is ahead of everyone on the off-road. When fully loaded, its minimum clearance is 21 cm, in the middle part of the base - 30 cm, under the front bumper - 36 cm, departure/entry angles, respectively - 30°/35°. Even the addition of a stabilizer and the use of small leaf springs had no effect on reducing the travel of its suspension, and the excellent cross-country ability is due to the strength of the transmission and high-torque engine. It is possible to purchase a factory rear differential lock, an Offroad package, a winch and off-road tires. The most purposeful can take a closer look at the expeditionary version.

The Niva's engine falters off-road - it lacks power, and the Duster's weak point is the modest suspension travel and viscous coupling, which is prone to overheating during intense slippage. If this happens, the all-wheel drive is turned off, and the car “comes to life” after cooling down.

Interior and luggage compartment

When compared with the SUV before modernization, the updated interior of the Patriot has changed very significantly. Previously, there were many complaints about the low quality of finishing materials and other shortcomings. The manufacturer drew conclusions and tried to correct previously made mistakes.

UAZ Patriot salon

The driver now has a three-spoke multi-steering wheel at his disposal, and the dashboard has become more easy to read and informative. The center console is designed in a minimalist style, while sporting a 7-inch multimedia touch screen. Plus there is single-zone climate control. The front panel was made in the spirit of modern crossovers. But it is important to add that almost all of this is missing in the basic configuration.

The interior of the Patriot is made mainly of inexpensive materials and not the most expensive plastic. But the seats were covered with fabric that was very pleasant to the touch. If you fork out for the top version, the buyer will even get a leather interior.

The interior layout remains the same. It can comfortably accommodate 5 adults. The luggage compartment is also accessible. When traveling, it holds 650 liters of cargo, and with the rear seats folded it increases to 2415 liters.

Having examined the interior that the Patriot offers, you need to take a look at what the Chevrolet Niva has to offer.

Chevrolet Niva interior

The Niva's interior can hardly be called modern and spacious. There is an acute lack of legroom for rear passengers. This drawback is especially pronounced against the backdrop of the Patriot.

The driver was provided with a fairly ergonomic seat, a conventional but comfortable steering wheel, and ergonomic interior space. Extensive glazing provides the important advantage of excellent visibility. In 2014, the Chevrolet Niva received new seats with improved lateral support and headrests.

The trunk here is not bad, considering the size of the car. But in comparison with its competitor it looks downright small. In the standard position of the rear sofa, 320 liters are available. And if you lower the back rows, you get 650 liters. There is no threshold in the trunk, the door opening is very wide, which makes loading and unloading much easier.

Considering the fact that the dimensions of the cars are completely different, it would be unfair to talk about the Patriot’s superiority in luggage compartment and interior space. But the interior design is still better than the product from the UAZ plant. More frequent updates, as well as the desire to impose a fight on foreign cars, forces active modernization. Chevrolet Niva is not one of the key projects, so here the issue of updates is given a minimum of time and effort. Needless to say, if the latest innovations, minor ones at that, were introduced 5 years ago, and the Patriot received a portion of new things literally last 2022.

If you are looking for a car with a modern interior and a huge supply of luggage space, then choose the UAZ Patriot. If the requirements for the back row are not a key parameter, and you do not need to constantly carry a large amount of luggage in the car, the capabilities offered by the Chevrolet Niva will be quite enough for you.

Inside the car

Yes, of course, this is no longer the old Niva, which simply has an ascetic interior. But the style of the interior of the new version remains modest and without any frills. The steering wheel is made of nice quality plastic. The seats are ordinary, without any frills. A driver of average height fits comfortably and feels comfortable behind the wheel. But according to reviews from seniors, there are some problems with the placement of the lower extremities even on a chair moved as far back as possible. Rear passengers of medium size also have enough legroom, and the ceiling is high.

The stove works 100% - the car turned out to be warm. There is good noise and heat insulation of the cabin. Visibility and control over the road (using large side mirrors) are at a good level.

Although it sometimes happens that it starts to malfunction, it doesn’t matter - read the article “Why the stove doesn’t work on a Chevrolet Niva” and you can easily fix it yourself.

What can be said about the main thing that catches your eye inside the UAZ? Space and only space. Even if there are nine of you! What you need for a trip, for example, on a large fishing trip. Accommodation amenities, however, are somewhat limited, but all the shortcomings of comfort pale in comparison with the vastness of the Patriot’s interior space. The interior design is a little uncomfortable: gray plastic, nothing outstanding.

Excellent driving review:

in traffic jams you can see 10 cars ahead. The driver's seat let us down, it could have been made more comfortable. The stove is good, but due to the large interior, the windows fog up from the inside, and their airflow is not thought out.

Motors, gearboxes and their capabilities

When buying a new car, you cannot count on a wide variety of engines and gearboxes in the case of the Chevrolet Niva.

Chevrolet Niva engine

Currently, this car is sold with only one uncontested power unit. But this is a very reliable 1.7-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine with 4 cylinders, 16 valves and multipoint injection. The engine complies with the Euro 4 eco-standard. It produces 80 horsepower and 127.4 Nm of torque.

The gearbox is also available with a non-alternative 5-speed manual. In this combination, Niva accelerates to 140 kilometers per hour. At the same time, it takes 19 seconds to accelerate from zero to hundreds. The numbers are truly terrifying. Fuel consumption is also respectable. In the city, the Chevrolet Niva needs about 14 liters per 100 kilometers, and on the highway appetites drop to about 9 liters.

It is worth adding that in the period from 2006 to 2008, the Chevrolet Niva was produced in a special version FAM1 or GLX. It was equipped with an Opel engine with a capacity of 122 hp. With. and a 5-speed manual transmission from Aisin. But the car did not receive the required demand, as a result of which only 1000 copies were sold in 2 years. Then production was stopped.

In order to understand which is better between the Chevrolet Niva and the UAZ Patriot, you definitely need to look at the technical parameters of the latter.

UAZ Patriot engine

The Patriot is currently offered with 2 power units.

The younger 4-cylinder engine has a displacement of 2.7 liters. It produces 135 horsepower and 217 Nm of torque. Runs on AI-92 gasoline. The engine is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission. In the city, the car consumes about 14 liters per 100 kilometers on the road, and in the suburban cycle it will take 11.5 liters to travel the same distance. The maximum speed is 150 kilometers per hour.
The older engine has the same volume of 2.7 liters and the same 4 cylinders. But the power has been increased to 150 horsepower, and the torque has been raised to 235 Nm. It runs on AI-92 and 95 gasoline. Like the younger engine, it works in tandem with a 5-speed gearbox. In terms of fuel consumption in various conditions, the manufacturer gives similar figures.

Another comparison, this time in terms of technical parameters, dynamics and efficiency, allows you to choose a higher priority option between the Chevrolet Niva and UAZ Patriot cars.

Engine modernization in the case of Patriot makes itself felt. Yes, none of the cars can boast of solid dynamics or low fuel consumption. But with its 80 horses, Niva consumes noticeably more fuel than its competitor. Plus, the Patriot accelerates to hundreds in about 14 seconds, which is just 5 seconds faster than its conventional competitor.

Dimensions

In terms of its dimensions, the Chevy Niva is definitely a bit cramped, not only in the trunk (320 liters or 650 liters if the rear seat is folded down), but also in the cabin itself. The Duster offers a more spacious interior, especially comfortable for rear passengers, and the volume of its trunk varies depending on the version: all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. In the latter case, we have a luggage compartment volume of 475 liters (or 1635 liters with the seat folded down), in the case of all-wheel drive - 410 and 1500 liters, respectively.

The UAZ looks like a real giant: the back seat is comfortable for three passengers, and they will not experience discomfort even on long trips. The luggage compartment is 650 liters up to the curtain level, 1130 liters up to the ceiling, and folded seats increase the volume to 2400 liters! If desired, two people can easily spend the night in a Patriot, which is unlikely to happen in a Niva or Duster. And if it works out, it will obviously be with less comfort.

The UAZ also wins in terms of carrying capacity: while its competitors have 0.45 and 0.5 tons, the Patriot has 0.6 tons.

Handling and maneuverability

You can choose what is best for a particular buyer, taking into account the requirements for Chevrolet Niva and UAZ Patriot cars, as well as their operating conditions.

If you want to get a confident, extremely durable and reliable off-road vehicle, the best option is the frame UAZ Patriot. It overcomes deeper fords, has solid ground clearance and a suspension adapted to difficult conditions.

At the same time, the Chevrolet Niva is not particularly inferior. Ground clearance from 200 to 240 mm. bears fruit. Plus, as it turned out, Chevrolet’s approach and departure angles were greater. Here the numbers turned out to be 37 and 35 for Chevrolet versus 35 and 30 for Patriot.

But the problem with a completely domestic SUV produced by UAZ is that this car behaves extremely unsteadily in urban conditions. It makes no sense to buy a Patriot as a city car for very rare trips on difficult roads. You will lose significantly in terms of comfort, you will constantly complain about the stiffness of the suspension and its poor behavior on asphalt. Management is far from exemplary.

With its good off-road characteristics, the Chevrolet Niva is a more urban car. Therefore, you can drive it equally comfortably on flat asphalt areas, go into nature, and overcome difficult off-road obstacles.

Therefore, first clearly define the goals and objectives facing the machine. Given the dominance of urban use, it’s definitely worth taking a Chevrolet. If the car is bought for fishing, hunting, or regular trips to bad roads, then the UAZ Patriot will be the best choice for such a situation.

Dimensions

Let's start with the dimensions and shapes of the bodywork. The external differences are clearly evident here! In UAZ the body is made in the classic five-door version. This is a heavy frame SUV, its weight is more than 2 tons, its length is more than 4 meters, and its height is just over two. The dimensions of the Chevrolet Niva seem much more modest. Because of this, the machine looks neater and more compact.

If we talk about capacity, then the Patriot, of course, is somewhat superior to the Niva: it has been verified by experience that four medium-sized men can fit on the sides of the UAZ luggage compartment. Whereas in the Niva there are only three on the back sofa, and even then they will create problems with comfort for each other. Although it is stated that both cars are designed to carry 5 passengers. But for those who value the compactness of the body itself, they certainly choose Chevrolet.

If you compare the trunks, then the Patriot’s is simply huge; if necessary, you can load it up well. The Chevrolet Niva is a loser in this regard, and its trunk seems quite cramped (but this is already a tradition, probably: remember the luggage compartment of the 3-door old version of the Niva).

Safety

You shouldn’t expect an increased level of safety from any domestic SUV or crossover. UAZ Patriot failed to get high scores in the safety assessment, even in expensive trim levels. In slippery road conditions, due to the operation of the drive, the car moves at the expense of the rear drive wheels. Plus the body itself has far from optimal parameters.

Compared to the Patriot, the Chevrolet Niva looks like a more balanced car. Security systems are better designed here. The issue of body deformation in the event of serious accidents has also been thought out, which more reliably protects the driver and passengers.

Chevrolet Niva salon

On the contrary, getting into the cabin of this SUV is more comfortable, because this representative does not have such high door sills. The downside is the lack of space in the cabin. Rear passengers have to rest their knees on the back of the front passenger. If you look at it as a whole, all the elements of the interior are made very carefully and well.

Service cost

If you put all the factors together, it turns out that the UAZ Patriot is noticeably more expensive in terms of maintenance and service. Fuel consumption is quite impressive, plus reliability is far from ideal. Breakdowns do not happen regularly, but sometimes car owners have to visit a car service center or hang out in a garage for several hours to fix them.

Oddly enough, frequent modernizations of the UAZ Patriot became a certain problem. This makes it difficult to find suitable spare parts, which change every now and then. And the more rare a part is, the more expensive it is in the end.

Chevrolet Niva has much fewer serious upgrades. Especially in the technical stuffing component. Spare parts for it can be easily found in markets and car dismantling yards. Plus, the car turned out to be quite reliable, there are no problems with self-service.

Chevrolet Niva wins here. The direct participation in the development of General Motors has a lot to do with it.

Despite the apparent difference and slightly different purposes, Chevrolet Niva and UAZ Patriot are often compared with each other. And if you compare all the components and key characteristics, then identifying a clear favorite is not so easy.

Outside the car

There are just fewer complaints about the Niva’s appearance. The car looks stylish and neat. Nothing superfluous - clumsy angularity, for example - is observed. The quality of the bodywork parts is at a fairly high level, good optics and main light. Most of the fragments are galvanized, which is also an undeniable advantage.

Patriot, of course, looks much more solid against Niva. So that even at dusk, for example, it is quite possible to confuse him with some serious foreigner. However, this appearance is for those who are good with everything bulky and angular. Probably, it was a tribute to tastes when the first Pajero and Nissan of very voluminous dimensions appeared on domestic roads (how long ago it was, and the passion of the Russian people for steepness and size is ineradicable). But having examined the bodywork more closely, up close, you can see that everything is not so good here.

What strikes the eye first is the rather low quality of workmanship and fitting of the main parts of the Patriot and welding, which is not always accurate.

Options and cost

Chevrolet Niva is sold in Russia in 6 different equipment options.

Standard equipment costs from 590 thousand rubles. For that kind of money you can get:

power steering;
front electric windows;
immobilizer;
15-inch steel wheels;
central locking;
isothermal glass;
audio preparation for 2 speakers;
heated feet for rear passengers;
heated exterior mirrors;
electric drive of external mirrors, etc.

By paying 740 thousand rubles and above, you get a much wider range of equipment. Namely:

2 front airbags;
combined interior trim;
air conditioner;
fog lights;
heated seats in front;
audio system with 4 speakers;
light alloy wheels 16;
roof rails;
signaling;
ABS, etc.

The 2022 model Patriot costs from 805 thousand rubles. Last year's versions can be found at prices starting from 760 thousand rubles. At the same time, they do not differ significantly in terms of configuration.

UAZ Patriot is standardly equipped with the following equipment:

one airbag;
ABS;
heated exterior mirrors;
electric drive of external mirrors;
16-inch steel wheels;
athermal glazing;
power steering;
on-board computer;
electric windows in front, etc.

If you take the top-end configuration, then official dealers will ask for it from 1.18 million rubles. But here there is:

2 airbags;
ESP;
fog lights;
18-inch alloy wheels;
glove box with cooling system;
roof rails;
multimedia center with touch screen;
single-zone climate control;
hill start assist system;
audio system with 6 speakers;
Rear View Camera;
Cruise control;
navigation system;
front and rear parking sensors;
heated front seats;
heated steering wheel, etc.

The equipment is truly impressive, but the price for it is appropriate.

Prices

Niva has the most attractive price among the options under consideration - depending on the version, excluding promotions and discounts, the price varies between 630-765 thousand rubles. For the Duster they ask from 700 thousand rubles to 1.115 million rubles, the Patriot is approximately within the same range - from 747 thousand rubles to 1.050 million rubles. Yes, Chevrolet wins here, but it’s not just the cost that will determine everything.

What is better to choose in the end?

The question remains relevant regarding which is better to choose - UAZ Patriot or Chevrolet Niva.

If you need the most versatile car that can take you around the city with a fairly good level of comfort, and, if necessary or desire, conquer off-road conditions, then definitely take the Chevrolet Niva. The main disadvantage of this car is its frankly weak power unit, which requires a large amount of fuel.

If you want to get a real rogue and off-road conqueror, without reference to urban use, then the undisputed favorite will be the UAZ Patriot. The car is large, roomy, brutal. But get ready for the fact that the Patriot will break down more often and the Chevrolet Niva will cost more to maintain. But this is in many ways a unique car that is bought, even despite the obvious and well-known shortcomings.

conclusions

To decide which of the proposed cars to give preference to, you must first of all have an idea of its intended purpose. The UAZ Patriot will suit the owner who is looking for a car for regular trips out of town, with a company or a large family. This car has enviable cross-country ability and feels great on country roads.

If the car is to be used in the city, taking into account regular trips to the country or fishing, then you should give preference to the more compact Niva, which has an advantage on the highway, especially in winter. In addition, the difference in cost is noticeable, because a Chevrolet Niva can be purchased for 100 thousand rubles cheaper. Therefore, after carefully considering all the strengths and weaknesses of the cars presented, it is worth coordinating the decision with the family budget.

Pros and cons of the Chevrolet Niva compared to a regular Niva

Let us highlight the characteristic features relating to both the 21st Niva and subsequent models VAZ-21213 and VAZ-21214. We will not consider the Long Niva (VAZ-2131), pickup truck (VAZ-2329) and other modifications. So, let's start with the undeniable advantages of the regular Niva compared to the Shevik:

Patency. Due to the short wheelbase, the 21st model has better geometric cross-country ability.
Price. In the same condition, a regular Niva will be 1.5-2 times cheaper than a Shevik.
Availability and low cost of spare parts. Especially for body parts.
"Psychological passability." An ordinary Niva is not so scary to be scratched or slightly dented, unlike a Chevrolet.
The best predisposition for off-road tuning.

Now let's list the disadvantages of the 21st Niva compared to the Chevrolet Niva:

Low level of comfort. Noise, vibration, lack of power steering (on old Nivas), uncomfortable driving position.
Outdated design. Although this is a controversial point, because the design of an ordinary Niva is recognizable all over the world, which cannot be said about the Shniva.
Poor aerodynamics.
Poor handling on the highway.
Cramped interior. This includes an uncomfortable seating position in the back row and a small trunk.

Everything is clear with the advantages and disadvantages of the regular Niva compared to the Shevik. Let's move on to the Chevrolet Niva.

Let us list the main advantages of the Chevrolet Niva:

Modern and quite successful design.
Passive safety. Although its level is unacceptably low, it is still slightly higher than that of a regular Niva. Chevy cars of recent years are preferable in terms of safety.
Relatively high level of driving comfort. Less vibration, less noise, comfortable driving position, power steering.
Spacious salon. This also includes a comfortable back row, seating and a relatively spacious trunk.
Not bad aerodynamics.

Now the disadvantages:

More expensive than a regular Niva, both in purchase and in maintenance and repair.
Poor cross-country ability due to the extended base and lower bumpers.
An abundance of plastic, especially on new Sheviks. A controversial point, because plastic protects the body from minor damage (scratches, chips).
Weak engine. The dynamics of Shevik are worse than those of a regular Niva.
More mass. On marshy soils this is a minus, but in other cases it can be a plus (shallow mud, loose snow).

Plastic protects the body from scratches and chips

It is also worth paying attention to one more point - body rigidity. It seems that the three-door car should have it higher, but the Shevik has thicker side members, so not everything is so simple

Uaz patriot in the new generation - beautiful, but not functional

Patriot is one of the anticipated cars that was advertised for a long time before its release. The car has already changed generations and taken on a slightly different appearance. Having lost a large market share due to an objectively outdated and uninteresting design, the company decided to make a good update to the exterior as well as the interior. Today UAZ Patriot has the following important features and characteristics:

choice between a good gasoline and a modern diesel engine with good performance;
successful exterior, tailored to the requirements of a modern person in any driving situation;
good technology, a good replacement for a manual transfer case with electronic all-wheel drive with good control;
impressive cross-country ability, thanks to fairly powerful updated power units;
quite nice appearance with modern updates, but keeping in the class of brutal cars.

Maintenance costs

As a rule, Duster and Patriot cost almost the same in terms of maintenance; Niva will require less expenditure. Despite the fact that, unlike Renault, UAZ is not a foreign car, its fuel consumption is very modest, plus service intervals are noticeably shorter (heavy operating conditions - 7.5 thousand km, normal - 15 thousand km), and many Imported parts that are purchased for dollars and euros. When dealing with a new car, you cannot do without CASCO, natural insurance, and compulsory motor liability insurance also remains.

The Duster is more economical, but it will have more imported components, and the service charge is the same as for a foreign car. Moreover, paying for the omnivorous nature of the suspension, which is not afraid of road irregularities, requires frequent repairs.

UAZ "Hunter"

Since the creation of this model, practically nothing has changed in it. The factory did a little work on the design, the interior became more suitable to the modern standard and that was the end of it. But the car received many positive reviews from owners. The engine on this car remained the same, but minor modifications were made.

The updated model received a diesel engine and a different transfer case. The car has a lot of serious advantages.

Firstly, it is reliability, the classic brutal appearance of a real car for conquering Russian and other off-road terrain.
Secondly, the car boasts an excellent frame design and high ground clearance, allowing you to move anywhere.
Thirdly, there are gasoline and diesel engines, but you shouldn’t expect particularly high performance from them. This car, among other things, is an excellent subject for various modifications and improvements, which is done in numerous garages.

Reliability is really high - reviews say. Also, many people buy this car from UAZ for its thick metal body. The car is in demand not only among those who like to knead mud, but also among hunters and fishermen. The car is very comfortable both in dirt and on asphalt, especially considering its price.

Recent Upgrades

Over the past two years, the Chevrolet Niva has undergone several changes:

the seats and their mechanisms are tilt adjustable;
new throttle body reduced transmission pulsation;
Thanks to SAAZ gas shock absorbers, controllability and stability have improved.

The technology for tensioning the alternator belt when installing it on the power unit has also changed.

Patriot received the following changes:

strengthening the fastenings of the windshield wiper wires;
The mounting of the washer reservoir has changed.

In 2022, the SUV received a new front axle with steering knuckles and a new clutch. The three-leaf rear springs were replaced with 2-leaf ones.

Time travel

Little has changed in the interior of the Lada over the past few decades; opening the 4x4 door opens a portal to the past. The details are especially impressive. For example, the heater control “sliders”, familiar to anyone who has driven a VAZ classic. As the experiment showed, some of the novice drivers under 20 years of age could not even understand how to use the stove in a Lada.

Niva is more thoughtful in ergonomic matters; its interior does not look like an artifact of ancient eras. There are not many keys, a kind of forced healthy minimalism. But there are also disadvantages here. The buttons are not always located logically; an excellent example is the light control unit to the left of the instrument panel. But for the power window keys on the door handle - “five”. And in general, the Chevrolet is more convenient than the Lada - all controls are at your fingertips.

Body characteristics

Chevrolet Niva - the car body has a 5-door, all-metal structure. Dimensions:

length – 456 cm;
width – 180 cm;
ground clearance - 20 cm.

Height – 169 cm, excluding roof rails – 165.2.

UAZ Patriot – body type – 5-door station wagon, dimensions:

length – before 2022 – 475 cm, after – 478.5 cm;
width – 190 cm;
ground clearance - 21 cm.

The height of the SUV until 2022 was 191 cm, from 2020 to 2022 – 200.5 cm, from 2022 191 cm.